Immerse yourself in the magic of Italian language and culture this holiday season with our curated list of Italian Christmas movies. From heartwarming classics to quirky comedies, these films not only capture the essence of Christmas in Italy but also provide an entertaining way to enhance your language skills.
(I Hate Christmas) In a nod to the popularity of series, we recommend ‘I Hate Christmas,’ a romantic series that adds a twist to the holiday narrative. Follow a young woman’s quest to find a boyfriend before Christmas, providing a binge-worthy alternative for language learners.
(5 Star Christmas) Brace yourself for the absurdity of ‘5 Star Christmas’ (Natale a 5 Stelle), a recent comedy involving the Italian prime minister and his mistress. While the film may not be a cinematic masterpiece, its presence on Netflix makes it accessible for advanced Italian language students seeking a lighthearted challenge.
(A Perfect Family) Experience the modern tone of ‘A Perfect Family,’ a recent Italian Christmas comedy. This adult-oriented film delves into the traditions of an Italian Christmas, emphasizing family rituals over religious aspects. With an ensemble cast led by Sergio Castellitto, the movie offers a humorous yet insightful portrayal of Italian cultural customs during the festive season.
(Christmas at the Cupiello House) Delve into the classic family drama of ‘Christmas at the Cupiello House,’ written by Neapolitan playwright Eduardo De Filippo. This timeless story, brought to life in 1977 and revisited in 2020, explores the Cupiello family’s quest for children and the importance of traditional Christmas customs. A captivating narrative that adds depth to your understanding of Italian culture.
(Christmas Vacation) Embark on a comedic journey through the Alps of northern Italy with ‘Christmas Vacation.’ Directed by Carlo Vanzina, this ’80s film explores the contrasts between rich Milanese and poor Romans, providing insight into different Italian dialects and colloquial terms. The fast-paced dialogue, reminiscent of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, immerses viewers in everyday Italian language.
(It’s Never Too Late) Step into an Italian adaptation of the timeless classic, A Christmas Carol, with ‘It’s Never Too Late’ (1953). This comedy follows the journey of Antonio Trabbi, a character akin to Ebenezer Scrooge, as he learns the true meaning of Christmas. Familiarity with the story is an advantage for language learners, and the film offers a unique glimpse into both Italian cinema and language evolution.
(The Blue Arrow) Unleash the child within and enjoy the enchanting animated world of ‘The Blue Arrow.’ Known in English as ‘How the Toys Saved Christmas,’ this ’90s film introduces viewers to the adventures of toys attempting to rescue Christmas. Aimed at a younger audience, it’s an ideal choice for Italian language beginners, combining a cultural narrative with language learning in a playful setting.
(Natale a New York) Explore the bustling streets of New York through the lens of Italian cinema in ‘Natale a New York.’ This charming film weaves together the tales of various characters during the holiday season, offering a delightful mix of Italian and American culture. Perfect for beginners, the movie features fluent and informal Italian dialogue, with subtitles available for those just starting their language journey.
Wrap up your holiday season with the gift of language learning, as these films offer a delightful blend of entertainment and education. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced student, these Italian Christmas movies are sure to enhance your linguistic journey. Buon Natale e buona visione!
